Infant Malnutrition Clinical Pathway — Outpatient Specialty Care and Primary Care

Observation of Feeding in Infants

Nursing and provider observation of feeding can help assess infants’ skill and stamina related to oral feeding.

If any of the following indicators are present, consider referral with Speech and/or Lactation.

  • Unable to maintain latch on nipple
  • Decreased state for oral feeding (e.g., inconsolable, unable to stay awake, signs of discomfort)
  • Oral loss of fluid
  • Observed signs of distress: coughing, congestion, changes in vital signs, stridor, stertor
  • Feeding inefficiency: infant feedings lasting > 30 minutes
  • Lack of caregiver awareness or response to infant’s cues for feeding readiness and disengagement